Pedal For Paros

Kitty and Niki have just sent me a message from Paros, where as many of you will know, they have been for the last few days. They went over for the anniversary.

We have had an amazing emotional rollercoaster time here on Paros…today we have been to the Memorial Service in the Church of 1000 Souls in Parikia, Paros to remember all those who sadly lost their lives on the Samina Express 6 years ago today. We went out with the Hellenic Sea Rescue Team on their rescue boat to the site of the shipwreck and made a short blessing and threw in a wreath. We saw the Portes rocks into which the Samina Express crashed and identified the rocks into which our small lifeboat was furthermore shipwrecked and onto which we clung for 6 hours till rescued. This was all very raw and painful for us and yet somehow helps us to peice together the memories. We have been looked after so beautifully here by the Rescue Team and they have really helped us to see Paros in a better more positive light during our stay and also have helped us to remember and pay our respects, give our thanks etc. On Sunday they made a Ceremony here in Naousa, a Preist baptised and blessed their rescue boat and the crew and they thanked our efforts and presented us with a plaque and certificate and made us honorary members of their sea rescue team..complete with t-shirts and caps. We made speaches and then were fed and given Suma a local very potent brew! Kats dad Ian had to play the part of “father” and dutifully drink 3 large glasses with the men from the rescue team! Kats mum and dad have been total stars supporting us here on this trip and being there for us .
Bye for now
Niki and Kitty xxx

This is them on the Rescue boat on their way to the site of the shipwreck.

and a message from the Blog-parents -

We have been thinking of them so much here too, as I’m sure many of you have. What an immensely brave thing to do, go out on a boat to the site.

We look forward to welcoming them back soon and thank the people of Paros for making them so welcome.